Lack of institutional pathways for referral: results of a survey among pediatric surgeons on prenatal consultation for congenital anomalies

OBJECTIVE

This paper aimed to assess pathways through which pediatric surgeons receive couples for prenatal consultation after prenatal diagnosis.

METHOD

A questionnaire was mailed to pediatric surgical centers to assess the following: (1) surgical caseload per year; (2) number of centers in which prenatal consultation is offered; (3) presence of a 'structured' prenatal consultation clinic; (4) number of consultations per year; (5) pathways for referral to the pediatric surgeon; and (6) the availability of psychological counseling.

RESULTS

Response rate was 81%, (42/52 centers). Thirty-eight centers (93%) offered prenatal consultation. Seven centers (18%) reported to have a 'structured' clinic in terms of time and location. In 13 centers (34%), 1-9 consultations were carried out, from 10 to 19 in 18 centers (47%), from 20 to over 50 in 7 centers (18%). In 34 centers, internal referrals from the obstetric departments were counseled, and in 28 centers, there were also external referrals. Eleven centers reported that couples were self-referred. Information regarding prenatal counseling was available on the institutional website in 10/38 (26%) centers. Psychological counseling was available in 36 centers.

CONCLUSION

Despite the fact that the majority of pediatric surgical centers provides prenatal consultation, caseloads are very variable as are referral modalities.

Is counselling for CCAM that difficult? Learning from parental experience

OBJECTIVE

Cystic adenomatoid malformations (CCAM) are relatively rare developmental abnormalities of the lung. Despite outcome is usually benign, parents often exhibit high anxiety level. The purpose of the present study was to collect parents'subjective experience of communication of diagnosis when expecting a fetus with CCAM.

METHODS

In the period ranging between 2004 to 2007 all couples referred to our hospital for prenatal suspicion of CCAM, were contacted to participate in the study by means of a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven couples returned fully completed questionnaire and form the object of this study. 13/27 couples were recommended pregnancy termination.MAJOR RISKS PRESENTED WERE: fetal distress (27/27), intrauterine death (16/27), death at birth (12/27).THE MOST DISTRESSING MOMENTS WERE: communication of diagnosis and the time lag between communication of diagnosis and consultation with the surgeon.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite CCAM carries a favourable prognosis, couples often appear to receive incomplete information with risk of fetal distress and demise prevailing over survival rate and long term outcome. To provide the couple with the most accurate information concerning the anomaly and the associated prognosis to make informed decision a referral to a tertiary pediatric surgery unit should be made as soon as possible.

Pulmonary hypertension in neonates with high-risk congenital diaphragmatic hernia does not affect mid-term outcome

PURPOSE

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) presents with a broad spectrum of severity, depending on the degree of pulmonary hypoplasia and persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPH). It is currently not clear whether pulmonary hypertension may affect late morbidity. Aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of PPH on mid-term morbidity in high-risk CDH survivors.

METHODS

All high-risk (prenatal diagnosis and/or respiratory symptoms within 6 h of life) CDH survivors, treated between 2004 and 2008 in our Department were followed up in a multidisciplinary outpatient clinic as part of a longitudinal prospective study. Auxological, gastroesophageal, pulmonary and orthopedic evaluations were done at specific time-points (at 6, 12, and 24 months of age). Patients were grouped depending on the presence/absence of pulmonary hypertension (defined by expert pediatric cardiologists after echocardiography). Paired t-test and Fisher's exact test were used as appropriate. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

70 survivors out of a total of 95 high-risk CDH infants treated in our Department attended our follow-up clinic and were prospectively evaluated. 17 patients were excluded from the present study because no clear data was available regarding the presence/absence of PPH during the perinatal period. Moreover, 9 infants were not enrolled because they did not reach at least 6 months of age. A total of 44 survivors were finally enrolled since they met the inclusion criteria. 26 infants did not present with PPH during the first hospital admission, while 18 had PPH. The 2 groups did not differ with regard to any of the outcomes considered at follow-up (p > 0.2).

CONCLUSION

In our cohort of high-risk CDH survivors, PPH was not found to affect late sequelae at mid-term follow-up. This may indicate that postnatal pulmonary development is not (always) influenced by perinatal PPH. Nevertheless, a longer follow-up and more patients are needed to properly quantify possible late problems in high-risk CDH survivors with associated neonatal PPH.

Long term follow-up in high-risk congenital diaphragmatic hernia survivors: patching the diaphragm affects the outcome

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The increased survival rate reached in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has shown a concomitant increase in late morbidity. A recent report from CDH Study Group showed that dimension of diaphragmatic defect is the only independent risk factor of mortality. However, the influence of defect size on late morbidity is still controversial. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of patch repair (proxy of diaphragmatic defects size) on midterm morbidity.

METHODS

All high-risk (prenatal diagnosis and/or respiratory symptoms within 6 hours of life) CDH survivors treated at our institution from 2004 to 2008 were followed up in a multidisciplinary outpatient clinic as part of a longitudinal prospective study. Auxological, gastroesophageal, pulmonary, and orthopedic evaluations were performed at 6, 12, and 24 months of age. Patient outcomes were compared with respect to +/- patch repair.

RESULTS

Of 70 survivors, 61 (87%) were enrolled and prospectively evaluated in follow-up. Poorer auxological outcome, increased rate of gastroesophageal reflux, and altered pulmonary function test were observed during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patch repair correlates with higher pulmonary, auxological, and gastroesophageal morbidity without increasing chest wall deformities at long-term follow-up.

When uncertainty generates more anxiety than severity: the prenatal experience with cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung

AIM

To assess reasons for higher levels of anxiety generated by prenatal counselling of a condition with good outcome such as cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) of the lung compared to a life-threatening malformation such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) was used to measure anxiety in two groups of mothers carrying a fetus with the respective malformation.

RESULTS

Forty-four mothers completed the questionnaire (CCAM, n=21 and CDH, n=23). Before consultation, the mean STAI-S scores in the CCAM group (44.80+/-5.92) and in CDH group (44.05+/-4.96) were not significantly different but was significantly reduced in both groups after consultation (CCAM 44.80 vs. 41.60, P=0.014 and CDH 44.05 vs. 34.35, P=0.0001). The groups were not significantly different regarding gestational age at diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

After initial prenatal counselling, uncertainty about prenatal outcome and lack of defined management plans in CCAM seems to be more important than higher mortality rate occurring in CDH.

Prenatal diagnosis of left isomerism with normal heart: a case report

OBJECTIVE

Left isomerism, also called polysplenia, is a laterality disturbance associated with with paired leftsidedness viscera and multiple small spleens. Left isomerism, heart congenital abnormalities and gastrointestinal malformation are strongly associated.

METHODS

We present a case of prenatal diagnosis of left isomerism in a fetus with a structurally normal heart.

CONCLUSION

Left isomerism syndrone may coesist with a structurally normal heart. If prenatal left isomerism is suspected, even in presence of a normal heart, is mandatory to esclude sign of gastrointestinal abnormalities, as late poly hy dramnios, and cardiac rhytm disturbance during the pregnancy and neonatal age.

Mothers' adaptation to antenatal diagnosis of surgically correctable anomalies

OBJECTIVE

To assess the applicability of Drotar model when the diagnosis of congenital malformation is made antenatally.

METHODS

In a 3-year period (2000-2003) fifty mothers, counselled for fetal malformations amenable to surgical correction at birth, were interviewed. Statistical associations were sought between each stage of the adaptation process and type of anomaly, gestational age at diagnosis, maternal age, educational background and previous miscarriage. Emotional experience at each stage was studied as dichotomous variables.

RESULTS

Fetuses were affected by the following anomalies: abdominal wall defects (11), intestinal atresia (14) and diaphragmatic hernia (25). All mothers experienced stage one, two and three. No association was found between anger, type of anomaly, maternal age, educational background, and age at diagnosis. On the contrary, such association was statistically significant for previous miscarriage. Thirty-nine mothers reached the adaptation stage while none of them experienced that of reorganization.

CONCLUSION

Despite significant differences, the adaptation process proposed by Drotar to describe parents reactions is applicable in prenatal age.

False-positive rate in prenatal diagnosis of surgical anomalies

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Technical refinements and increasingly sophisticated equipment have led to higher sensitivity in prenatal diagnosis of congenital malformations; however, such progress may be accompanied by decreased specificity. The aim of this study is to evaluate evolution of prenatal diagnosis from the first sonographic suspicion of fetal anomaly until after delivery (diagnosis confirmed, resolution before birth, healthy baby, or affected with different disorder) to document rate of false-positive (FP) results.

METHODS

Retrospective review of prenatal ultrasound examinations performed at our institution between 2000 and 2002 was conducted. The series includes pregnancies referred to our department after detection of thoracic and abdominal anomalies at routine obstetrical sonography and with a follow-up comprising at least the first 6 months of life. Urologic malformations were excluded. Those fetuses who proved healthy at birth were considered FP results.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-seven fetuses/neonates underwent complete follow-up. Prenatal diagnosis of esophageal atresia resulted in 3 (27%) of 11 FPs. Finding of dilated bowel, isolated or associated with hyperechogenicity or ascites, was not predictive of small bowel obstruction in 7 (41%) of 17 fetuses. No FPs were found with regard to abdominal wall defects (8 gastroschisis and 26 omphaloceles, all confirmed at birth). Concerning thoracic malformations, no FPs were seen among the 28 cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, whereas diagnosis of lung malformation presented a specificity of 97% (1/28 FP). Ovarian cysts accounted for an FP rate of 17% (4/23 FPs). Overall, a percentage of FP of 12% (6/50) was seen in 2000, of 11% (5/44) in 2001, and 9% (6/63) in 2002, with no statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of the high FP rate regarding some particular anomalies, unnecessary psychological burden to prospective parents may ensue. This issue should be dealt with in future prospective studies.

Parents' informational needs at the birth of a baby with a surgically correctable anomaly

Previous studies have assessed informational needs of parents of sick fetuses, neonates and children to identify favourable patterns of physician-parent interaction. The aim of this paper was to assess parents' informational needs before and after the operation when the one affected by a surgically correctable anomaly is a newborn. In the period ranging from 1997 to 2000 all couples with newborns undergoing major surgical procedures at birth, at the Newborn Surgery Unit of the Hospital Bambino Gesù, were surveyed by means of a questionnaire. Thirty couples form the object of the study. The two genders did not show significant difference in any of the considered items. All 30/30 mothers (M; 100%) and 29/30 fathers (F; 97%) had never heard about the anomaly before the diagnosis was established in their baby. All parents (100%) stated that it would be better if the surgeon informed them with written educational material. Principal informational needs before operation regard: the description of the anomaly (M = 10; F = 11) and the prognosis in terms of survival chances of the baby (M = 17; F = 15); after surgery the cause of the anomaly (M = 5; F = 3); the steps of the recovery process (M = 10; F = 12) as well as the quality of their baby's life (M = 9; F = 9). In the immediate perioperative period the surgeon should well address parents' informational needs, which may significantly differ from his communication plan.

Prenatal counselling of small bowel atresia:watch the fluid!

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate polyhydramnios as a sign of extreme disproportion of atretic segments in small bowel atresia (SBA).

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients with a prenatal diagnosis (PD) of SBA undergoing neonatal surgical treatment were reviewed retrospectively. Parameters recorded were gestational age, birth weight, surgical procedure, rate of complications, parenteral nutrition (PN) days and length of stay (LOS). Patients were divided into two groups: Group A with delayed anastomosis and Group B with direct anastomosis.

RESULTS

Seventeen subjects were in Group A while 11 were in Group B. The two groups did not differ with regard to gestational age at diagnosis, birth weight and obstetrical management. Polyhydramnios was present in both Group A (64.7%) and Group B (9%) (p < 0.05). Patients in Group A needed a longer period on PN, had a longer LOS and exhibited significantly higher rates of complication.

CONCLUSION

In the absence of other malformations, association of dilated bowel loops and polyhydramnios is highly predictive of severe SBA, which can in no instance be amenable to one-stage reconstruction. Because of its consequences on postnatal treatment, such information should be conveyed to the prospective parents at the time of counselling.

Early reconstruction of the abdominal wall in giant omphalocele

Omphalocele is the most common congenital defect of the abdominal wall. Mortality rate is between 20 and 70% and early closure of the abdominal wall, within 10 days of life, is vital to the successful outcome of the surgical treatment. The authors describe the use of two bipedicled flaps of abdominal skin to correct the defect of the midline as soon as the reduction of all viscera has been accomplished.

Impact of a current treatment protocol on outcome of high-risk congenital diaphragmatic hernia

BACKGROUND

There is considerable debate regarding the optimal management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) in high-risk infants (those cases presenting with respiratory distress within 2 hours of birth or those diagnosed prenatally). The aim of this study was to analyze patient outcomes using a new treatment protocol for CDH in a tertiary care non-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) neonatal unit.

METHODS

The records of 78 consecutive neonates with CDH presenting to Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital from 1996 to 2001 were analyzed retrospectively. Of these infants, 70 high-risk patients were identified (prenatal diagnosis or respiratory distress requiring intubation and assisted ventilation within 2 hours after birth), regardless of associated anomalies, medical condition on presentation, or degree of pulmonary hypoplasia. A prenatal diagnosis was made in 46 of 70 (66%) patients. Associated lethal malformations were present in 6 of the children (8.5%). The patients were placed in 3 historical groups: group 1, 19 patients from 1996 to 1997, group 2, 22 patients from 1998 to 1999, and group 3, 29 patients from 2000 to 2001. In the first 2 groups, a new protocol was introduced using inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) and high-frequency oxygen ventilation (HFOV). In the third group, gentle ventilation and permissive hypercarbia were also used routinely. Mortality and severe morbidity--defined as O2 requirement at discharge, need for a tracheostomy, neurologic impairment, or bilateral hearing loss-were evaluated when the patients were at 6 months old. Univariate analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The 3 groups were comparable with respect to predictive risk factors such as side of hernia, prenatal diagnosis, polyhydramnios, stomach and liver in the thorax, associated lethal malformations, and patch. Overall survival rate significantly increased from 47% (9 of 19) in group 1 and 50% (11 of 22) in group 2 to 90% (26 of 29) in group 3 (P =.02). None of the 19 patients in group 1 had severe morbidity compared with 2 of 22 (9%) patients in group 2 and 2 of 29 (7%) patients in group 3. Hearing loss was observed in 4 patients. Mortality rate and preoperative pneumothorax significantly decreased in group 3 compared with groups 1 and 2 (P =.03 and P =.00, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

(1) The application of new treatment protocol for CDH, using gentle ventilation and permissive hypercarbia, produced a significant increase in survival with concomitant decrease in morbidity. (2) The rate of pneumothorax was significantly decreased by the introduction of permissive hypercarbia and gentle ventilation. (3) As more infants survive CDH without the use of ECMO, severe long-term sequelae of CDH can be recognized in these children.

Antenatal diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia: parents' emotional and cognitive reactions

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess parent's emotional and cognitive reactions to the prenatal diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia in their prospective children.

METHODS

A survey was conducted by means of a questionnaire. In the period ranging from 1997 to 2002, 40 couples in whom an established diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia was made in their fetus were seen for prenatal consultation at a tertiary referral center.

RESULTS

Overall response rate was 93% (37 couples). Mean period since diagnosis for compilation of the questionnaire was 2 weeks. Mean gestational age at diagnosis was 25 weeks (range, 16 to 35 weeks). All parents lacked prediagnostic knowledge of diaphragmatic hernia and consider a single consultation with the paediatric surgeon inadequate to have a clear understanding of the anomaly. Only 1 mother and 1 father reported they understood all the information given by the surgeon. The most frequent (75%) feeling during and after the consultation was fear. Most parents (70%) referred to the intense emotions as the factor that made it difficult to follow the surgeon's explanations as well as to ask questions.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of the incompatibility of emotional distress and optimum learning, impairment of early comprehension of information about diaphragmatic hernia is unavoidable. Therefore, we believe that follow-up antenatal consultations and provision of written and visual illustration are extremely important to facilitate informed choices.

Antenatal diagnosis of surgically correctable anomalies: effects of repeated consultations on parental anxiety

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether or not a correlation exists between antenatal consultations and parental anxiety.

STUDY DESIGN

In total, 31 couples undergoing prenatal consultation after a diagnosis of a surgically correctable anomaly were asked to fill in a questionnaire (Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) measuring anxiety levels (AL) both after the first consultation and at birth. Prenatal counselling was done by a perinatal team including paediatric surgeon, obstetrician, and psychologist.

RESULTS

Malformations were: eight diaphragmatic hernias, 10 intestinal atresias, four abdominal masses, nine abdominal wall defects. Each fetus was subsequently followed up at regular intervals from diagnosis to birth. AL at birth were then compared with the number of antenatal consultations. A negative correlation (r=-0.688, p<0.001) was found between the number of consultations and the level of anxiety at birth. Patients having at least two consultations had significantly lower anxiety levels at birth.

CONCLUSION

Irrespective of the type of malformation, there is evidence that having more than one antenatal consultation may significantly reduce AL at birth. Therefore, early antenatal diagnosis should be encouraged in order to increase as much as possible chances of repeated consultations for the prospective parents.

[Prenatal diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: an update]

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has an incidence of approximately 1:4000 live births. Most frequently the diaphragmatic defect is a left and posterolateral (Bochdalek) one. Prenatal diagnosis is made at ultrasonography; the relevant sonographic features will be described in the paper. Cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CAML), pulmonary sequestration, bronchogenic cysts, pulmonary hypoplasia/agenesia need to be considered in differential diagnosis. In some cases, diagnosis of CDH is not possible "in utero": in such cases, herniation of abdominal viscera into the thorax takes place presumably just at delivery through a small diaphragmatic defect. CDH may be associated with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), chromosomal abnormalities (3%) and/or other malformations (10-50%): such as Central Nervous System, digestive, cardiac and urogenital anomalies. Therefore, search of associated malformations and amniocentesis with analysis of fetal karyotype are mandatory, whenever a CDH is diagnosed. CDH is still at present characterised by a high mortality (reportedly, about 45%). Many prognostic factors have been correlated to postnatal outcome of CDH: some of them are valuable prenatally by ultrasonography. However, the role of sonography in the prediction of neonatal outcome is still controversial: in particular, although many ultrasonographic parameters have been proposed, prenatal evaluation of pulmonary hypoplasia (a crucial factor related to postnatal survival) has not proved to be very accurate so far. Nevertheless, it is undisputable that prenatal diagnosis itself represents a crucial prognostic factor for CDH, since it allows birth of the affected fetuses in 3d level Perinatologic Centres provided with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Neonatal Surgery.

Bipedicled skin flaps for reconstruction of the abdominal wall in newborn omphalocele

Despite technical refinements in surgery and advances in postoperative intensive care, abdominal wall closure in giant omphalocele remains a difficult endeavor. In this respect, bipedicled skin flaps obtained with longitudinal incisions along the margins of the rectus abdominis muscle may represent a good alternative solution to achieve a complete, tension-free midline closure. Incisional areas can subsequently be easily covered with split-thickness thigh grafts. Two neonatal cases were treated with this technique with good results. This has enabled avoidance of palliative coverage as well as complex musculo-cutaneous reconstructions at a later age.

The impact of cystic fibrosis on neonatal intestinal obstruction: the need for prenatal/neonatal screening

To determine the incidence of cystic fibrosis (CF) in neonates with intestinal obstruction (NIO) secondary to meconium ileus (MI), jejunoileal atresia (JA), meconium plug syndrome (MPS), volvulus (V), and meconium peritonitis (MP) and analyze the correlation of ultrasonographic (US) signs with CF in NIO with a prenatal diagnosis of intestinal anomaly, a prospective analysis of different types of NIO from 1990 to 1998 was undertaken. Immunoreactive trypsin measurement, genetic studies, and sweat tests were performed to confirm or rule out CF. Cases with prenatal diagnosis were analyzed for gestational age, dilated bowel, ascites, hyperechoic bowel, and calcifications. Of 80 neonates, 19 (24%) had CF: 2/33 (6%) JA, 6/14 (43%) MPS, 1/14 (7.1%) MP, 10/10 (100%) MI, and 0/9 V. Thirty (37.5%) had a prenatal diagnosis of an intestinal anomaly. The overall incidence of CF in NIO with a prenatal diagnosis of intestinal anomaly was 4/30 (13%), or 333 times the estimated risk of CF in the general population. A hyperechoic pattern with dilated bowel was associated with higher specificity for CF: 3/3 cases (100%), followed by hyperechoic bowel with ascites: 3/4 cases (75%). All babies with any type of NIO should thus be screened for CF. Prenatal screening for CF should be indicated in all pregnancies with US patterns of specific intestinal disorders.

Cystic anomalies of biliary tree in the fetus: is it possible to make a more specific prenatal diagnosis?

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Biliary tree cystic malformations (BCM) occur rarely. Current progress in ultrasonography makes it possible to identify them prenatally. The aim of this study was to analyze retrospectively prenatal ultrasound patterns of 5 consecutive subhepatic cysts in an effort to differentiate the BCM before birth and onset of symptoms.

METHODS

The prenatal ultrasound patterns of 5 consecutive BCM were correlated with the postnatal diagnosis.

RESULTS

Case 1 showed a hyperechogenic cyst that underwent enlargement during fetal life; the diagnosis at birth was an obstructed choledochal cyst (CC). In cases 2 and 3, an anechoic cyst with small, stable dimensions during pregnancy was identified; a biliary atresia (BA) type III-C was confirmed at birth. A slightly hyperechogenic cyst with no increase in size at repeated prenatal scans, was observed in cases 4 and 5; a CC and a cystic lesion at the confluence of the hepatic ducts (without obstruction) were diagnosed postnatally, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The ultrasound scan pattern and size allow to make a prenatal differential diagnosis of BCM. Anechoic, small cyst in the hepatic hilum is highly suspicious for BA. Large, echoic or enlarging cyst is strongly suggestive of "obstructed" CC. Echoic, small and stable cyst is more suggestive of "unobstructed" CC.

Multidisciplinary management of fetal surgical anomalies: the impact on maternal anxiety

AIM

To assess the impact on maternal anxiety of a multidisciplinary approach in prenatal management of fetal surgical anomalies.

DESIGN

A case-control study was undertaken: Group A (cases) consisted of 16 couples receiving a prenatal multidisciplinary counselling, Group B (controls) was represented by 16 couples, who received diagnosis of the fetal anomaly and the relevant counselling by an obstetrician only. The fetuses were affected by the following gastrointestinal anomalies: gastroschisis, omphalocele, intestinal atresia.

METHODS

The Italian version of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was utilized to assess maternal anxiety. In Group A maternal anxiety level was assessed after the first antenatal counselling and at birth, whereas in Group B only at birth.

RESULTS

At birth, Group A presented STAI-S scores significantly lower than after the first antenatal consultation with the team (Mean +/- SD = 39.87 +/- 6.46 versus 68.93 +/- 5.81; p < 0.01). At the end of the first day spent with the baby in the Neonatal Surgery Unit, Group A presented STAI-S scores significantly lower than Group B (Mean +/- SD = 39.87 +/- 6.46 versus 70.62 +/- 4.12; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence of the positive impact on maternal anxiety of a multidisciplinary approach in prenatal management of fetal surgical anomalies.

Severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH): a critical analysis of eight years' experience

OBJECTIVES. 1) To define the best outcome of severe Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH); 2) to critically evaluate deaths in order to identify possible criteria of exclusion from ECMO; and 3) to identify CDHs which could benefit from ECMO.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

63 severe CDHs, 35 (55.6 %) survivors and 28 (44.4 %) nonsurvivors, subdivided into 2 groups according to age at death: Group I dying at 12 < or = 24 hours, and Group II dying at > 24 hours after birth. The three groups were compared on the basis of prenatal diagnosis, polyhydramnios, gestational age, birth weight, pneumothorax, best values of postductal PaCO 2 and PaO 2, clinical and echocardiographic signs of persistent pulmonary hypertension, and severity of pulmonary hypoplasia (i.e., body weight to bilateral lung weight ratio at autopsy).

RESULTS

PaCO 2, PaO 2 and degree of pulmonary hypoplasia were significantly worse in Group I compared to Group II and to survivors. PaCO 2 and PaO 2 in Group II did not differ significantly from those of survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

In severe CDH it is possible: 1) to achieve a survival rate of 56 % without ECMO; 2) to identify a group of patients (Group I = 27 %) with severe pulmonary hypoplasia who would probably die even with ECMO; and 3) to identify a group of patients (Group II = 17 %) who might benefit from ECMO treatment.

The management of fetal ovarian cysts

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Ovarian torsion causing the loss of an ovary represents the most common complication of fetal ovarian cysts and occurs more frequently before than after birth. Thus, treatment of fetal simple ovarian cysts should be performed antenatally; however, criteria for prenatal decompression still need to be evaluated. Previous experience of the authors showed that large simple cysts have a poor outcome, whereas preliminary attempts of their "in utero" aspiration were all successful and uneventful. The authors evaluated the outcome of fetal simple ovarian cysts after prenatal aspiration and considered criteria for this procedure. The outcome of cysts showing a prenatal ultrasound pattern of torsion also was studied.

METHODS

This prospective study includes 73 ovarian cysts (48 simple, 25 showing torsion) diagnosed in 72 fetuses from June 1992 to June 1999, and followed up until spontaneous resolution or surgery. Prenatal aspiration was performed in the case of simple cysts >/=5 cm in diameter. The outcome of these cysts was compared with that of similar cysts not aspirated in the authors previous study (X(2). Cysts with an US pattern of torsion persisting at birth were operated on. The outcome of simple cysts less than 5 cm and cysts with a prenatal ultrasound appearance of torsion also was evaluated.

RESULTS

Prenatal decompression was performed without any complications in 14 cases: 12 (86%; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.00) regressed subsequently; 2 (14%; 95% CI: 0.00 to 0.32) showed torsion postnatally. This outcome is significantly better than that of similar cysts not aspirated in the authors' previous study(10) (P =.0002). Among the 34 simple cysts less than 5 cm, 26 (76%; 95% CI: 0.62 to 0.90) resolved spontaneously; 8 (24%; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.38) had complications, 7 of which showing torsion (diameter at evidence of torsion, 4.4 cm [median]; range, 3.3 to 5.2 cm). Among the 34 cysts showing torsion (25 with initial US pattern of torsion + 9 subsequently complicated simple cysts), 24 (71%; 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.86) required oophorectomy; 9 (26%; 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.41) spontaneously disappeared at ultrasound, one of which required surgery for intestinal obstruction secondary to adhesion of a necrotic ovary; one patient (3%; 95% CI: 0.00 to 0.09) was lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal aspiration of ovarian cysts appears effective and safe: a "cutoff" of 4 cm should be investigated. Cysts with ultrasound pattern of torsion persisting postnatally require surgery; options for their management, when sonographically disappearing and asymptomatic, need to be investigated.

Prenatal diagnosis of a bronchogenic cyst in an unusual site

We report a rare case of a subdiaphragmatic cyst, diagnosed prenatally during routine ultrasound screening at 25 weeks' gestation. Serial ultrasonographic evaluation demonstrated a slight increase in the size of the cyst during pregnancy. On the basis of the anatomic site and the sonographic features of the lesion, four diagnostic hypotheses were postulated: cystic neuroblastoma, adrenal hemorrhage, duplication of the inferior third of the esophagus and retroperitoneal cystic lymphangioma. A healthy baby, weighing 3300 g and with Apgar scores of 8 and 9, was delivered vaginally at term. He underwent successful surgery at the age of 3 months. The post-operative course was uneventful and the baby is currently doing well. Histology revealed a bronchogenic cyst.

Cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung: clinical evolution and management

Cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CAML) is a rare pulmonary maldevelopment resulting from an abnormal growth of the terminal bronchial structures. This study proposes a possible management of prenatally diagnosed CAML. A group of nine cases of CAML diagnosed prenatally between January 1990 and December 1995 was studied retrospectively. The evolution of lesions was followed in utero by serial ultrasound monitoring. Chest X-ray was performed at birth in all neonates and CT only in the symptomatic ones. CAML was macrocystic in three cases and microcystic in six. No polyhydramnios, hydrops or associated malformations were seen. In four cases, CAML was confirmed at birth and required surgery. The lesion decreased in size prenatally in five fetuses, of whom only one underwent surgery. In two further cases a prenatal diagnosis of CAML was changed to diaphragmatic hernia.

CONCLUSION

Given the possible clinical disappearance or resolution of cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung, we believe that surgery is justified at birth only in symptomatic and radiologically positive neonates. It could be safely delayed in those asymptomatic patients with either positive or negative chest X-ray. The former need computed tomography at birth, whereas, in the latter, it should be performed at 6 months of age for a more definitive assessment of the patient.

Ultra-short-bowel syndrome is not an absolute indication to small-bowel transplantation in childhood

Short-bowel syndrome (SBS) either in adults or in children is considered as an indication to small-bowel transplantation (SBTx), particularly in its most severe form with a residual bowel length below 20 cm. Among factors likely to worsen the prognosis, more recent reports also indicate the number of surgical interventions, early onset sepsis and early development of liver disease. We report six cases of ultra-short-bowel syndrome followed from birth to verify the importance of various prognostic factors. In our case series, the male sex is predominating (5:1). Intestinal resection was indicated in 3 patients for multiple intestinal atresias, in 2 for volvulus and in 1 for necrotizing enterocolitis. The length of intestine remaining was invariably less than 20 cm and 2 patients had a preserved ileocecal valve. In most cases, more than 50% of the colon remained. The number of abdominal operations ranged from 1 to 4. In almost all cases (5 of 6), sepsis and hepatopathy developed early. Our experience suggests that rather than depending on the length of intestine remaining or the presence of the ileocecal valve, the prognosis of patients with the extreme-short-bowel syndrome depends on recurrent neonatal onset sepsis and early onset liver impairment. In addition, our case review shows that the extreme-short-bowel syndrome is not necessarily an indication for bowel transplantation.

A ten-year experience of Brescia-Cimino arteriovenous fistula in children: technical evolution and refinements

PURPOSE

The arteriovenous fistula (AVF) of Brescia-Cimino fulfills nearly all of the criteria for an optimal access for chronic hemodialysis, such as long-term patency rate, low complication rate, and respect of vascular morphologic features. Alternative dialytic methods (i.e., external shunts and vascular grafts) cannot easily be applied to pediatric patients, and in addition, these methods are responsible for higher complication rates.

METHODS

From January 1985 to December 1994, 112 Brescia-Cimino AVFs were performed in 90 children (average age, 5.5 years; range, 5 months to 18 years). The average weight of the children was 28 kg (range, 6.5 to 54 kg); 16% of AVFs were performed in children who were less than 5 years old, and 18% in children who were less than 15 kg in body weight.

RESULTS

Chronic renal failure was caused by a nephropathy in 53 cases (14 with a nephrotic syndrome), and 37 cases had a uropathy. In all cases a phlebography was performed before the microsurgical treatment. Since 1994 an inflatable tourniquet has been placed on the selected upper arm because of an optimal exsanguination of the operating field. The primary patency rate was obtained in all but six of the children; 35% of AVFs had either immediate or late complications. Thrombosis was the most frequent complication that we observed. In comparison with 79% of late thrombosis, 60% of early thrombosis was cured. Of the 80 AVFs, 63.5% with a 4-year follow-up are still patent.

CONCLUSION

We emphasize the following two conclusions: first, microsurgery is essential to create AVFs with good results in children as well as in adult patients; and second, the results improved after the adoption of an upper-arm exsanguination and ischemia (pressure range, 400 mm Hg to 600 mm Hg) that avoided spasm of the vessels with a final 35% reduction in surgical time.

Maximal oxygen consumption and stress performance in children operated on for congenital diaphragmatic hernia

The long-term follow-up of patients operated on for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) at birth has been extensively evaluated, both clinically and with respect to respiratory function. However, little is known about the sports practice and stress performance of these subjects. Fifteen of 107 patients operated on for CDH underwent exercise stress testing with a stepwise increase in workload. A questionnaire was provided, which requested information on sports practice and lifestyle. Maximal oxygen consumption [Vo2 max] was measured along with dynamic lung volumes. Clinical examination included a whole-body assessment (height, weight, skinfolds) and vital parameters (heart rate and blood pressure). Fifteen healthy children who practiced regular physical activity (2 to 4 hours/week) served as controls. All the CDH patients experienced a good lifestyle, but only 8 of them were participating in sports. Exercise duration and Vo2 max were significantly lower for the CDH patients, and were lowest for the sedentary patients. Therefore, the reduced Vo2 max of these otherwise healthy children most likely represents a lower degree of physical fitness rather than decreased respiratory function. Fitness is an expression of well-being; thus, there is evidence that these patients could safely participate in competitive motor activities.

Antenatal ultrasonographic diagnosis and management of fetal ovarian cysts

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcome of fetal ovarian cysts in relation to their ultrasonic appearance and size.

METHODS

Forty-two fetal ovarian cysts were diagnosed in 41 fetuses and followed with serial ultrasonograms in utero and after birth until spontaneous or surgical resolution.

RESULTS

Twelve fetal ovarian cysts that were echogenic at diagnosis and six that were anechoic at diagnosis but became echogenic at subsequent prenatal sonograms were all submitted to postnatal surgery. Of the remaining 24 cysts, all anechoic, four were successfully aspirated in utero, 11 resolved spontaneously after birth, and nine underwent postnatal surgery for complication. The outcome of cysts that were anechoic at diagnosis was significantly correlated with size (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Echogenic fetal ovarian cysts should be always surgically removed. The outcome of anechoic cysts depends on the size at diagnosis, and serial ultrasonographic assessment is recommended; although not randomized, the present series suggests that in utero aspiration of cysts > 5 cm may prevent complication and subsequent oophorectomy.

The gliding testis: minor degree of true undescended testis?

The gliding testis is located below the external ring; it can be manipulated to the upper scrotum but tends to ascend to its original position. Histologic changes can be detected in these gonads by 7 years of age. We evaluated 427 consecutive prepubertal boys referred for cryptorchidism. One hundred and twenty-three had classical undescended testes: 71 ectopic, 55 retractile, and 178 (mean age 6 yrs. 2 mos.) gliding testes. The gliding testes were smaller than controlaterals in 24% of boys. All gliding testes were unilateral, whereas bilaterality was 85% in the retractile group (P < 0.0001), 17.5% in the undescended (P < 0.001), and 10% in the ectopic group (P < 0.01). There was a history of one or more of the following conditions: orchidopexy (3), hormonal treatment (5) late testicular descent (9), spermatic cord torsion (5), testicular pain (10), actual retractile testes (20) or actual gliding testis (58), was present in 93 (52.2%) of the fathers of the gliding group. Forty-seven (81%) paternal gliding testes were hypotrophic. Seventy-five boys with gliding testis underwent initial hormonal therapy with transient benefit, and 57 were operated on. Two anatomical findings are typical of the gliding testis: (i) the absence of the gubernaculum, and (ii), a processus vaginalis partially patent from the upper scrotum to the mid groin area. This latter feature explains the mobility of the gliding testis from the external ring to the upper scrotum. The absence of the gubernaculum may be responsible for a higher incidence of spermatic cord torsion in this population.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Prenatal diagnosis and clinical outcome of ovarian cysts

Technical refinements of ultrasound (US) have greatly affected the antenatal diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts. From 1985 to 1990 25 consecutive fetuses with ovarian cysts were followed-up by US both during pregnancy and postnatally. All cases were diagnosed between the 28th and 39th weeks of gestation. Deliveries were all at term; cesarean section was required only for obstetric complications. Eight fetuses (32%) showed US patterns of cyst torsion, a finding confirmed at surgery in all. In five patients US patterns suggested complications postnatally that were also confirmed at operation. In six cases cysts increased or remained unchanged in size after 15 days of life: in 50% of these surgery showed ovarian torsion. In the remaining six cases spontaneous resolution occurred within 1 to 4 months. One patient required intrauterine needle aspiration. There were two cases of intestinal obstruction. To date, more than 60% of newborns with ovarian cysts require oophorectomy; however, different treatments (cystectomy, needle aspiration, uncapping) combined with a close US follow-up are likely to reduce this percentage.

Cognitive-motor abilities of the elderly driver

This article reviews literature that documents the effects of age on motor performance as it relates to driving behavior. Movement initiation is the focal point of the first part of the article, and it is considered in terms of absolute age differences when functional manipulations are made, such as response preparation, response selection, response programming, and complexity. The second part of the article addresses age difference in the context of movement execution characteristics; differences in movement speed, force production, limb coordination, and sensory motor integration are considered. Movement time and movement kinematics and kinetics are the principal dependent measures reviewed. Adults were found to initiate and execute movements more slowly and with less precision as they age, which may contribute to the decline of their driving skill. Most of the data reviewed were obtained in laboratory settings; nevertheless, they suggest how age may impair the elderly driver.